Symptoms and Features of Addiction

Question 1

What is addiction?

Answer 1

The ICD-10 - dependence disorder because ppl feel they need have/do smth regularly to avoid negative feelings or “feel normal”.

Question 2

What kinds of things are people addicted to?

Answer 2

Substances like tobacco and alcohol and activities like gambling or shopping.

Question 3

What often accompanies addiction?

Answer 3

Withdrawal – set of physical or psychological symptoms that appear when trying to quit or cannot satisfy their addiction.

Question 4

According to the ICD-10, what conditions must be met for someone to be diagnosed with addiction?

Answer 4

At least 3 symptoms must be present at the same time for 1 month in total or for repeated occasions over a year.

Question 5

Give the 5 main symptoms of substance addiction.

Answer 5

1. Physical withdrawal symptoms, i.e shaking, vomiting
2. Tolerance to the substance - may need to increase the amount used to get the same effect.
3. Feeling a need to use the substance, and stopping or reducing the use of the substance is very difficult.
4. Replacing normal activities with time spent using the substance.
5. Ignoring evidence that the use of the substance is harmful.

Question 6

Give the 3 main symptoms of behavioural addiction.

Answer 6

1. Feeling a need to do the activity regularly and reducing the activity is very difficult.
2. Spend more time doing the activity than other previously enjoyed things.
3. Ignore evidence that the activity is unhealthy or damaging.

Question 7

What are the main features of addiction?

Answer 7

1. Most common types = to opiates and then to alcohol.
2. Amount of addicts is hard to estimate bc many do not realise they are addicted or seek help.
3. NHS estimated that 2 million people in the UK suffer from a type of addiction.
4. Many suggest that young ppl may be prone internet addiction